Why should we be travelling green?

 

Tourism is responsible for approximately 5% of global CO2 emissions and contributes to 4.6% of global warming.

 

At 75% of all emissions, the transport sector contributes the largest proportion of this.

 

Air travel is responsible for 40% of the total carbon emissions caused by this sector, whilst rail and coach contribute 13%.

 

For example, 2 people flying within Europe will generate approximately 1 tonne of CO2, whilst the average hotel stay will result in 29.53kg of CO2 being emitted.

 

 

What's so bad about all this CO2?

 

Our consumption of earth's natural resources is at a rate of 25% greater than the earth's ability to replenish them and to sustain life on earth. We're now experiencing accelerated climate change: extreme weather, more droughts, acidifying oceans and the melting of the polar ice caps. We've already helped to destroy half of the world's wildlife since 1970 and according to the IPCC, the prospects for the next 40 years aren't looking so great either:

 

http://www.wri.org/resources/data-visualizations/infographic-choose-your-future-4-possible-emissions-pathways

 

 

What we can do about it?

 

At Sustain Europe, we understand that telling you to avoid air travel or driving simply won't cut any ice with you. There are times when you have no option but to drive or fly, be it for that meeting tomorrow afternoon or for transporting the whole family to the southern hemisphere for some sun and fun.

 

But what you can do is choose an airline or hotel which has made a firm commitment to reduce their CO2 and Better still, choose an airline or hotel which also offers you the chance to offset your carbon footprint through programmes of renewable energy generation or tree planting.

 

Analyse your impact using carbon emissions data. Find out how you can improve and set reduction targets.

 

Treat your hotel room with respect: turn off the TV, lights and air conditioning when you don't need to use it and avoid any unnecessary use of resources.

 

If you can walk or cycle or take public transport: do it. If you must rent a car, choose the smallest one available or better still, choose a hybrid or an electric vehicle.

 

Take a reusable water bottle with you. Throw in a couple of reusable shopping bags for good measure. Buy local, eat local.

 

Set a policy in place for all of your business meetings: whether it be for that long lunch or for your annual conference.

 

Trust us, our planet will thank you for it.